Avoid Becoming “Ticked” Off This Season: April is “Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs” Month

As we transition into spring and summer, there is a lot we have to look forward to—warm weather, blooming flowers, green grass, and blossoming trees. Unfortunately, this change also means that the pesky tick season is upon us.

Unfortunately, this change also means that the pesky tick season is upon us.

April is, “Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs” month, so it is a good time for pet owners to start learning and taking the necessary steps to keep their pups safe. Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the world, and can affect dogs of any age, size, or breed.

Understanding where this disease comes from, how to prevent it, and the symptoms associated with it, will help keep your furry friend in the clear.

Where Lyme Disease Comes From

Lyme disease, which is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, is found in deer ticks and the Western black-legged tick. These ticks like to hide out in wooded areas, tall grasses, or bushes. After attaching itself to your pet, these ticks can transmit the disease to your pup within 12 to 48 hours. Once the disease is in the blood stream, it can be spread throughout your dog, specifically affecting the joints. Symptoms may develop over a 2-5 month period.

How to Prevent Lyme Disease

As pet owners, we want our pup to be happy and healthy all year long, which is why taking the right steps towards prevention is key. Using a monthly spot on treatment that controls ticks is crucial in making sure your pet is tick free. PetAction™ Plus is a fast-acting, affordable and convenient solution.

Also, it is a good idea to check your dogs for ticks daily during the flea and tick season, especially if they are frequently outside. If you find one of those pests, make sure to remove it safely as soon as possible. We all know how much dogs like to play and get into areas they shouldn’t be. If you have tall grass or big shrubs, consider trimming them to help keep ticks away.

Symptoms of Lyme disease

Lyme disease can be a tricky sickness to spot. Some pet owners might not even know the infestation has occurred in their dog right away. If you suspect your dog has contracted Lyme disease, compare your pet’s symptoms to those below:

Shifting leg lameness

Swelling in the joints

Difficulty breathing

Fever, lack of appetite

Lethargy or Fatigue

Keeping those nasty little ticks at bay, and watching out for the warning signs of ticks and Lyme disease, will help ensure you and your pup can enjoy the summer flea and tick season with no problems!